Features and selection of tripod magnifiers

An optical device is indispensable for studying small details. Tripod magnifiers are a good solution. They are easy to use and inexpensive. Such devices are presented in an extensive range: the equipment differs in optical characteristics, type of holder and additional functions.

Unlike handheld models, tripod magnifiers have a special holder for the optical lens. The structure of such a device is simple. It includes glued or clip-on lenses that are framed by a plastic frame. A tripod, clamp or bracket acts as a supporting part.

Standard loops are magnified from 2x to 20x. Such devices are used in everyday life and professional activities. For example, at home, they are suitable for reading text with small print, doing creative work. They are used in workshops for inspection, detection of defects and repair of small parts, microcircuits. They often become indispensable assistants to numismatists, jewelers and watchmakers, painting restorers, and cosmetologists.

Tripod magnifiers differ in shape and size. They are rectangular, round, or square. There are models with special holders - they are designed to fix the item in question. Such devices are convenient in operation, since they free the hands of the master.

Optical devices differ in materials of manufacture. Manufacturers make lenses from the following materials:

• acrylic whip;
• optical polymers;
• ordinary glass.

Acrylic lenses are most often installed in budget models.Such optics cannot provide high quality magnification.

Magnifiers also differ in the type of holder and illumination. Let's consider these devices in more detail.

Magnifiers are available in large outdoor or tabletop magnifiers. Floor standing units are heavy - their weight is 9-12 kg. They can be on a stationary leg or mobile on wheels. The second option is preferable for those who need to frequently change the location of the device. Both devices are convenient to use due to the ability to adjust the height of the device and change the angle of inclination.

Tabletop models are often equipped with a clamp, an important part of which is the clamping screw. With its help, the device is securely fixed to a table or couch. Manufacturers also offer gooseneck or stand devices.

Most of the magnifying glasses are equipped with lamps. They function as additional lighting in the workplace. Lamp magnifiers are equipped with LEDs or high-power incandescent lamps. Their optical power ranges from 2 to 4 diopters. LED bulbs consume electrical energy economically, they do not incandesce and are designed for a long service life.

Here are some highly sought-after outdoor and tabletop tripod magnifiers with a good balance of quality and value.

• Ring magnifier SD-2021AT on a clamp from the manufacturer SunDream. The magnification is 5 diopters. The model is equipped with a 22 W lamp. The weight of the device is 4 kg. The device has the ability to adjust the height and angle of inclination.

• Levenhuk Zeno Lamp ZL13 is a model for household use. The magnifier lamp has 2x magnification. The advantage of the device is the built-in battery, which provides autonomous operation of the backlight for 2 hours. A touch panel is provided on the body of the device for adjusting the brightness of the illumination. The model is equipped with a flexible tripod that allows you to rotate the lens at the optimal angle. The design provides a hinged cover to protect the optics from contamination.

• Magnifier Kromatech. The device is equipped with a flexible arm with removable object holders and illumination (2 diodes). Made of metal and heavy-duty plastic. The device is powered by 3 LR03 (AAA) batteries. The model is suitable for reading, jewelry and radio engineering activities.

• STAYER 40531. Budget model with backlight and 8x magnification. Round device for tabletop placement. The lens of the equipment is made of glass, the body is made of durable plastic. The magnifier is designed with a flexible tripod and a hinged cover to protect the lens from dust.

• Levenhuk Zeno Lamp ZL17 LED is a round magnifying glass lamp with a clamp. Equipped with LEDs. The lenses are made of optical glass. The metal bracket has several sections that allow you to position the magnifier in a convenient position for the user. The device is attached to a tabletop with a clamp. The design includes a hinged cover.

When buying an optical device for professional use, you must first focus on the number of diopters. The degree of magnification depends on this parameter. For the arrangement of beauty parlors, models of 3 and 5 diopters are suitable. Jewelers and electronics craftsmen often opt for 8D devices to help them see the smallest details and microcircuits.

The type of backlight is also important. Equipment with LEDs is preferred. It gives a powerful luminous flux, but at the same time absorbs a minimum amount of energy. Compared to fluorescent lamps, diode light is softer.

The following parameters are also important:

• a protective layer on the optics - it protects the lens from scratches, thereby prolonging its service life;
• the ability to change the viewing angle - this function is important for both household appliances and professional;
• antistatic coating of optics - thanks to it, dust will not settle on the lens;
• the presence of holders - such fasteners are especially necessary if the device will be used in workshops.